2024 Reading Challenge

2024 Reading Challenge
Jill Elizabeth has read 1 book toward her goal of 285 books.
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2023 Reading Challenge

2023 Reading Challenge
Jill Elizabeth has read 5 books toward her goal of 265 books.
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Book Reviews: Benjamin Birdie’s First Flight AND Benjamin Birdie and the Tree Dwellers by Michael Dotsikas

I don’t often review children’s books, but every now and again I learn about a delightful new title or two and feel compelled to share… Today I’m pleased to introduce you to Benjamin Birdie, an absolutely darling little guy who is chomping at the bit to grow up – a sentiment my daughter shares every day. The books are an award-winning set of titles by the dynamic team of Michael Dotsikas (words) and Morgan Spicer (illustrations) and they are everything you’d want a children’s book to be – sweet, thoughtful, engaging, gorgeously illustrated, and full of sneaky little messages enmeshed in lovely and lyrical prose.

In the first book, Benjamin wants DESPERATELY to fly, but just can’t seem to figure it out, so he turns to his friends in the jungle. In a hilarious, touching series of interactions, Benjamin learns the value of persistence, patience, and most importantly of not growing up TOO fast… In the second, Benjamin and his friends are back to give flying another try. This time, Benjamin and crew focus on the importance of being true to yourself and not letting fear keep you from trying the things you long to try.

The lessons in both books are presented in a style that is cute but not cutesy and just the right blend of serious and lighthearted. My daughter thoroughly enjoyed the antics but also understood the takeaways – which is a testament not just to her brilliance (teehee) but to the clarity of the writing and the on-point nature of the messaging. In addition to offering great life advice, the books include glossaries of terms used within and a mini-encyclopedic reference guide to the animals mentioned in the adventure, making this not only a great life lessons story but also a great geographic/zoological learning tool.

These books were a great find – they are gorgeous to look at as well as fun (and educational) to read, and would make marvelous gifts for the young and young at heart. Thanks to the author and the good folks at Author Marketing Experts, Inc., for introducing me to them and for my review copies!

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